The pharmaceutical packaging services market in China is projected to reach USD 20.35 million by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% during the forecast period, according to a 2025 report by QYResearch. This growth is part of a broader global market expansion, where the sector was valued at approximately USD 4,994 million in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 6,590 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 4.1%. Pharmaceutical packaging services involve outsourcing solutions for drug packaging, including primary and secondary packaging, labeling, and logistics, aimed at ensuring safety, quality, and regulatory compliance while reducing capital investments for pharmaceutical companies.
Market Drivers and Trends in China
Key factors propelling the market in China include the increasing preference for asset-light operations, particularly among small and medium-sized biotech companies and startups, which outsource packaging to focus on drug development. Stricter global pharmaceutical regulations, such as serialization and anti-counterfeiting measures, are also driving demand for specialized services that ensure compliance. Additionally, post-pandemic emphasis on supply chain resilience has accelerated the need for flexible and geographically diverse packaging capacities to handle market fluctuations and unexpected demands.
Technological integration is a significant trend, with services adopting digital solutions like serialization systems, IoT monitoring, and data analytics for enhanced traceability and intelligent production. There is a shift towards high-value-added solutions, including ultra-low-temperature packaging for cell-based therapies and sustainable materials that meet environmental standards. Mergers and acquisitions among packaging firms are expanding service scopes and global footprints, building integrated capabilities that cover design, material management, regulatory consulting, and logistics.
Competitive Landscape and Market Segments
In China, the top three players held approximately 54.0% of the market share by revenue in 2024, with key manufacturers including CanPharma Supply Services and Taikun Pharma. The market is segmented by service type and application, with independent third-party packaging service companies holding the largest share at 50.87% by product type. In terms of application, clinical drugs account for the majority at 60.12%, highlighting the sector’s focus on drug development and commercialization support.
Globally, the market includes major companies such as Cardinal Health, CCL Industries, and PCI Pharma Services, with segments based on packaging types like plastic bottles, blister packs, and glass containers, and applications covering OTC and RX pharmaceutical companies. The report provides detailed analyses of market size, growth potential, and trends for each segment, aiding industry players in strategy development and resource allocation.
